7 Best Things to do in Marrakech (Travel Guide)

The former imperial city of Marrakech also happens to be the vibrant capital of Morocco. Here one can get a first hand experience of both ancient time bound traditions as well as a taste of an extremely modern city with all the conveniences imaginable. From visiting the culturally rich heritage sites to haggling in the shaded souks, here are is a list of things to see which will allow you to explore the optimum of the unique blends this Red City has to offer.

Marrakech is a city which moves at its own pace, so there is no point in trying to rush past it. You are bound to be confronted with disagreeable smells, wherever the modern and the medieval try to clash with each other. Everybody may or may not have a quality time here, but one thing is certain that no one will leave without having a sensory experience from Marrakech, an experience which is sure to remain entrenched in the minds for time to come.

How to get to Marrakech

How to get to Marrakech by plane

There are flights coming from all over Europe to Marrakesh Menara airport. The airport is located 15 minutes driving distance from the city. Buses and taxis are going to the city from the airport. Check skyscanner to get the best deals!

How to get to Marrakech by bus and train

Marrakech is connecting with most of the cities in Morocco. You can get by long distance buses with air-conditioned and they are comfortable. There are trains coming from Casablanca around 3 hours. Also trains connections through Rabat to Fez, Tangier and Meknes.

Marrakech Travel Guide

Best time to visit Marrakech

In Marrakech summer months from June to August is so hot the weather. During the winter months from November to February the temperature is mild. We believe the best time to visit Marrakech is during the spring months from March to May when the days are fresh and sunny.

ATMs and Currency in Marrakech

There are ATMs in Marrakech and exchange offices in the main touristic points. The main currencies are accepting and the local currency is the Moroccan Dirham around $1= 10 MAD.

Internet and Wifi Connection in Marrakech

Most of the hotels, hostels and guest houses offer free wifi connection and it works properly. There are also coffee shops around small town where you can get connection. You can also buy a 4G sim card that will allow you to be online anytime. Make sure you are bringing your passport when buying your local sim card in Marrakech.

Daily Budget travel in Marrakech

For transportation around Marrakech by taxi will cost you $1-2 and even cheaper if you get public transportation.

Food travel budget in Marrakech you can find juices for half a dollar and a whole meal in local places starting from $3-4 and it’s so delicious their gastronomy.

For accommodation in Marrakech you can find deals starting from $15 per a room and even cheaper if you go in a low budget. You can find nice Airbnb in Marrakech starting from $15-20.

Things to do in Marrakech

1. JARDIN MAJORELLE

A magical creation of Jacques Majorelle, the French painter, the Jardin Majorelle is one of the most popular attractions in the entire country. It is said that this innovative and hardworking gentleman, took more than 40 years to realise his dream of making a truly stunning garden.His flair and passion is clearly visible in the numerous flowing streams and hundreds of different cacti plants which are on display here. If ever there was a place in Marrakech which provided the visitor with a break from the hectic city life, than this is it.

2. KOUTOUBIA MOSQUE

The biggest in Marrakech, the Koutoubia Mosque occupies a pride of place in the culture of the Moroccans. Extra importance is given to religious structures in Morocco which can be visualised by its stunning architecture. It’s ornamental minaret dates back to the twelfth century and is adorned with colorful arches, all spaced in proportion thereby making it an unique piece of architectural design.This spiritual abode, resonates to the sound of the prayer from the minaret top, five times each day, not only in appreciation of Allah, but to the life of the locals as well.

3. JEMAA EL-FNAA

This magical city square of Jemaa El-Fnaa is considered to be the heart and soul of not only Marrakech, but the whole of Morocco including. Visitors throng here daily in vast numbers to have a feel of what makes Marrakech actually tick, and they don’t go back disappointed either. After all, where else in the world can one visit bazaars full of tattoo artists, snake charmers and other entertainers during the day, which by evening changes in a flash to a enticing food outlet.At night,this is the best place in Marrakech, to enjoy the traditional local culinary dishes with the freshest of fruit juices to be relished anywhere else.

4. SAADIAN TOMBS

Having been hidden from public view for centuries, the historical Saadian Tombs were ultimately unsealed in 1917.These magnificent monuments are said to be the resting abode of many a member of the Saadian dynasty and are steeped in history. Arabic calligraphy markings, bright tiles and intricate carvings on each tomb makes a visit to this interesting site worthwhile.The tombs are located near the city and the government has made every effort to keep them restored and clean, making for an ideal way to spend time from the noise and din of Marrakech.

More things to do in Marrakech

5. SOUKS

No trip to Marrakech, leave aside any city of Morocco, can be deemed complete without paying a visit to any of the enchanting souks which abound here. Indeed, the city of Marrakech owes its entire charm to these traditional places which hold untold treasures. Visitors can hope to find handicrafts, old books and great food, all concealed in a maze of shops in winding alleys and lanes, where one can get easily immersed for hours on end. So explore, unwind and don’t forget to bargain, because this is the soul practice of the souks of Marrakech.

6. TANNERIES

The overwhelming smell will easily lead you to the northeast part of the medina, where these unmissable tanneries are located.Vendors will reach out to you to enter their shops and see for yourself how the leather bags and dresses are manufactured, right from hand dying to the final preparation and supply to the market.Visiting these intriguing workplaces provide an exciting alternative to going to a modern factory of the city.

7. HAMMAM

If you want to experience one of the most exfoliating of all spa treatments, then pay at least one visit to the local bath house, usually known as Hammam. After a wonderful massage and sauna bath, a dip in the ice-cold pool will rejuvenate you fully. There are a number of different price range of Hammams in Marrakech, so best to do a bit of research before going.

This is a guest post written for our friend Lavinia from Continent Hop!

Lavina did not quit her job to travel! Neither did took a sabbatical. She’s an Engineer, who works 9-5 and loves travelling, writing, design and photography. And she sometimes even love being a couch potato with a beer in hand. Keep reading below!

Ruben Arribas is a Spanish traveler who has traveled more than 70+ countries around the world. He believes in travel without money. Recently, he finished a bicycle trip, 9500 km, from Madrid to North Cape.

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